The Founder and President of the Focus on Sickle Cell Foundation (FoSCel), Amos Andoh has called for increased public education, genotype awareness and greater support for people living with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) as September is observed globally as Sickle Cell Awareness Month.
Mr Andoh said misconceptions and stigma surrounding the condition continue to create additional challenges for individuals and families affected by Sickle Cell Disease.
In a statement marking the month, the Focus on Sickle Cell Foundation said many sickle cell warriors face recurrent pain, frequent hospital visits, financial difficulties, discrimination and a lack of understanding in their schools, workplaces and communities.
FoSCel is therefore encouraging Ghanaians, particularly young people to know their genotype and understand Sickle Cell Disease.
Mr Andoh emphasised that genotype awareness should not be viewed solely in the context of marriage but should form part of broader health education and informed decision making.
He also urged society to listen to the voices and experiences of people living with Sickle Cell Disease, stressing that they deserve dignity, inclusion and support.
As part of the awareness activities for September, FoSCel says it will engage the public through media discussions, educational activities and advocacy engagements.
The engagements are expected to promote accurate information on Sickle Cell Disease, address misconceptions and draw attention to the realities of living with the condition.
FoSCel has also commended media houses supporting public education on the disease and appealed to other media organisations, institutions, corporate bodies, schools, religious organisations and community leaders to join the awareness campaign.
The Foundation says the campaign should move beyond awareness to greater understanding and action.
Its message for the month is: “Know Your Genotype. Understand Sickle Cell Disease. Support Warriors.”
By: Michael Walier
